Commercial litigation remains one of the most high-stakes areas of legal practice in the United Kingdom. From shareholder disputes and contractual breaches to fraud, professional negligence, and cross-border claims, businesses require highly experienced solicitors who combine technical expertise with strategic foresight.
The UK is fortunate to have a wealth of distinguished commercial litigation firms ranging from boutique City practices to large regional firms that are consistently recognised for excellence.
Below we highlight some of the best commercial litigation lawyers and law firms in the UK. This list is illustrative rather than exhaustive, providing a useful starting point for businesses seeking outstanding representation.
Top Commercial Litigation Lawyers UK
Saunders Law
Saunders Law is a specialist litigation boutique based in London. The firm is particularly well-regarded for acting in complex commercial and corporate disputes, including civil fraud and asset recovery, often with international dimensions.
Notable Practitioner: Matthew Purcell – Partner & Head of Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution, recognised for his expertise in heavy commercial litigation, including appellate work.
Testimonial: “Known for advising on cutting-edge and high-profile litigation.”
Herbert Smith Freehills
Herbert Smith Freehills is internationally renowned for its disputes practice. The London litigation team regularly handles big-ticket corporate and financial disputes, class actions, and multi-jurisdictional matters.
Notable Practitioner: James Baily – Solicitor Advocate and Partner in the Dispute Resolution division, with over two decades’ experience in complex commercial disputes.
Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance fields a powerful team of litigators in London. The firm regularly advises on shareholder disputes, breach of contract cases, and global litigation strategies.
Notable Practitioner: Simon James – Partner specialising in commercial and corporate litigation, including high-value financial disputes.
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer is frequently considered the gold standard in multi-party and multi-jurisdictional litigation. The firm represents leading corporates in some of the most challenging disputes globally.
Notable Practitioner: Richard Lissack KC – A leading figure in financial and commercial litigation.
Top Rated Firms on ReviewSolicitors
Alongside the international heavyweights, a number of highly regarded UK firms have earned exceptional client feedback on ReviewSolicitors, reflecting strong reputations across commercial litigation matters:
Poole Alcock LLP
Poole Alcock LLP is ranked number one out of more than 2,300 commercial litigation solicitor firms in the UK on ReviewSolicitors. With over 3,000 reviews, the firm is praised for value, responsiveness, and its ability to guide clients through complex disputes.
Ward Gethin Archer Limited
Ward Gethin Archer is ranked second nationally for commercial litigation on ReviewSolicitors. Known for its strong regional presence, the firm combines expertise in dispute resolution with accessibility for businesses across East Anglia and beyond.
GloverPriest Solicitors Limited
GloverPriest Solicitors, ranked third, has built an impressive reputation with over 3,000 client reviews. The firm advises SMEs and individuals on a wide range of commercial disputes, praised for its practical, client-friendly approach.
Sills & Betteridge LLP
Sills & Betteridge, with over 4,500 reviews, is ranked fourth on ReviewSolicitors. The firm is well-known for its dispute resolution capabilities across the East Midlands and beyond, offering both breadth and depth of expertise.
CEL Solicitors
CEL Solicitors is ranked fifth nationally, with more than 14,000 reviews. Based in the North West but serving clients nationwide, CEL is recognised for its innovative approach, client care, and accessibility in commercial and consumer-related disputes.
The “best” commercial litigation lawyer in the UK will ultimately depend on the unique circumstances of the dispute, including sector, value, and location. International firms such as Saunders Law, Herbert Smith Freehills, and Clifford Chance bring global reach and technical excellence, while highly rated regional firms like Poole Alcock, Ward Gethin Archer, and CEL Solicitors provide trusted and client-centred representation. Businesses are encouraged to seek legal advice early to protect their interests in what can often be fast-moving and high-stakes situations.
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